New Gps/sonar

[garyw]

any input would be helpful. good, bad, or otherwise

this is the unit in question

Humminbird 597ci HD DI GPS/Fishfinder Combo

thanks

[huntest]

I recommend Lowrance Gen II Touch

[garyw]

i'm sure it's a nice unit, but at $1500 it's WAY to rich for my budget.

thanks though

[huntest]

You can get the Gen II for well under $1, 000

[aarchdale@coresleep.com]

I've used both. Got a hummingbird di now, but I have been in friends boats with lowrance. I like the lowrance better. Just my opinion though it just seems easier to use.

[garyw]

You can get the Gen II for well under $1, 000

where? maybe i've been shopping in the wrong places.

[huntest]

http://m.basspro.com/Lowrance-HDS5-Gen2-Fishfinder/GPS-Chartplotter/product/53518500/

And a lot on ebay too

[Bill Babler]

Couple of tips when changing or upgrading your electronics. The price in the box store catalogs is usually just that. Most often it does not contain the entire package of hardware and wiring system that you will need. If you are upgrading you need to go from the battery completely to the unit. Leave nothing from your previous equipment. You don't start completely fresh and you will wonder why you don't like the new one as well as you should.<br /><br />On the gen II some people like the touch screen, and some do not. I hate finger prints on my screen.<br /><br />I know lots of you are do it yourselfers, but installing and making sophisticated electronics work as they should are not for amateurs.<br /><br />I would give Scott a call at Marine Repair Center. Tell him your budget and how you fish and he will recommend and install the electronics best suited for your particular needs. They will sell you what you should have and nothing more. This is the place for electronics and installation in this area. They know clear deep water basin. 417-833-9191 They handle both Lowrance and Hummingbird.<br /><br />Good Luck

[Old plug]

I have 2 units on my boat and neither one or expensive. I believe that you can get to involved with all that stuff and it will cost you a lot if fish. You get involved with the electronics and it takes away from your consentration. I do like something with high resolution, but mine are rarely turned on.

[garyw]

thanks everybody for the input. it was helpful.